HC Deb 07 July 1960 vol 626 cc51-2W
51. Mr. V. Yates

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, in view of the fact that during the twelve months ended 31st May, 1960, 247 male prisoners and eight female prisoners were placed on No. 1 diet at Winson Green Prison, Birmingham, whether he is satisfied that this method of punishment accords with modern methods of penal reform; and what plans he has for changing this system.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have no proposals to abolish this form of punishment, which was supported by a Departmental Committee which enquired into disciplinary punishments, and was approved by Parliament. Modern constructive penal methods do not mean that there should be no punishment for wilful acts of indiscipline, and this is found to be a useful form of punishment.